The Committee for the Implementation of Textile Agreements, also known as CITA, is a United States government organization responsible for implementing and enforcing textile trade agreements. Established in 1984, CITA plays a crucial role in ensuring fair trade practices and protecting domestic textile industries.
CITA is a division of the Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA), which is a part of the International Trade Administration within the U.S. Department of Commerce. Its primary functions include monitoring and enforcing textile trade agreements, conducting investigations and audits, and providing guidance and expertise on textile trade issues.
One of CITA`s main responsibilities is administering the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) as they relate to textiles and apparel. These agreements provide a framework for tariff reductions and the elimination of trade barriers, which can benefit both U.S. manufacturers and textile producers in partner countries.
CITA also plays a role in enforcing trade agreements with countries that are not part of NAFTA or CAFTA-DR. For example, it monitors textile imports from China and other countries to ensure that they comply with quotas and other trade restrictions.
In addition to its enforcement activities, CITA is responsible for providing guidance and expertise on textile trade issues. It maintains a database of textile trade data and provides information to businesses and trade organizations on trade agreements, tariffs, and other issues relevant to the textile industry.
Overall, the Committee for the Implementation of Textile Agreements plays a crucial role in promoting fair and open trade practices in the textile industry. Its efforts help to ensure that U.S. textile manufacturers and workers are protected and that trade with partner countries is conducted in a mutually beneficial manner.